A recent analysis of 4,092 sitting MLAs from 28 state and UT assemblies has exposed a disturbing trend—nearly 45% (1,861 MLAs) have criminal cases registered against them. Even more concerning, 1,205 MLAs (29%) face serious criminal charges such as murder, attempted murder, kidnapping, and crimes against women.
Andhra Pradesh Tops the List
Among all states, Andhra Pradesh has the highest percentage of MLAs with criminal cases, with 79% (138 out of 174 legislators) facing charges. It is followed by Kerala and Telangana (69% each), Bihar (66%), Maharashtra (65%), and Tamil Nadu (59%).
TDP MLAs Lead in Criminal Cases
A party-wise analysis reveals that Chandrababu Naidu’s Telugu Desam Party (TDP) has the highest proportion of MLAs with criminal cases—86% (115 out of 134). Additionally, 61% (82 MLAs) face serious criminal charges.
Other parties with a high number of MLAs facing criminal cases include:
✅ BJP – 39% (638 of 1,653 MLAs), with 26% facing serious charges
✅ Congress – 52% (339 of 646 MLAs), with 194 facing serious charges
✅ DMK (Tamil Nadu ruling party) – 74% (98 of 132 MLAs), with 42 facing serious allegations
✅ Trinamool Congress – 41% (95 of 230 MLAs), with 34% facing serious cases
✅ AAP – 56% (69 of 123 MLAs), with 28% facing serious charges
Serious Charges Against MLAs
📌 Murder cases: 54 MLAs
📌 Attempt to murder cases: 226 MLAs
📌 Crimes against women: 127 MLAs, including 13 accused of rape
Criminal Cases & Wealth: A Disturbing Link
Interestingly, the average assets of MLAs with criminal cases are Rs 20.97 crore, higher than the overall MLA average of Rs 17.92 crore. Also, 119 MLAs (3%) are billionaires.
This report, based on an analysis by the Association of Democratic Reforms (ADR), raises serious concerns about the increasing criminalization of politics in India. Will voters demand accountability in the next elections?
